tempting waters

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tempting waters" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used metaphorically to describe situations that are alluring or enticing, often with a hint of danger or risk involved. Example: "As she considered the job offer in a different city, she felt she was stepping into tempting waters, unsure of what challenges lay ahead."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

In the effort to conclude it, countries may be tempted to water down some of the more ambitious aspects of TPP.

The Economist

After recent warnings that governments may be tempted to water down proposals for net neutrality, incoming VP for the digital single market in the European Commission, Andrus Ansip, has spoken out.

The Guardian - Tech

The premier may well be tempted to water down the most ontroversial aspects of his reform programme and focus on non-partisan issues.Though Poland should keep its head above water it appears Mr Tusk's new excuse for procrastination could be that Poland's economy is not healthy enough for major change.

The Economist

Sometimes, when you become friends, mentors may be tempted to water down the feedback, which is not good for anyone.

Huffington Post

A handily placed boiler pipes in hot water, tempting us to soak by candle-light in the roll-top bath.

The Guardian - Travel

Stocks View: Sharks In Those Tempting Tech Waters?

Forbes

Even though it is tempting to give them warm water, warm water freezes faster.

WikiHow

The hope is that people will prefer cheap, if limited, health care to none at all.It is tempting to pour cold water on all this state activity.

The Economist

For first-time coffee maker users, it may be tempting to pour the water directly into the filter basket.

WikiHow

Other banks were also tempted into rough waters.

The Economist

With the script by Keith Thompson (whose adaption of musical The Sapphires premiered at Cannes last year), I hear Australian actor Joel Edgerton has already been tempted into the waters and I'm told the film will concentrate on the blood, sweat and commitment of the rowers.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tempting waters" to describe situations that seem attractive on the surface but may contain hidden dangers or uncertainties. This adds depth and nuance to your writing, painting a vivid picture of allure and risk.

Common error

While "tempting waters" can be effective, avoid overusing it. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your writing sound predictable. Consider using more specific and original imagery to convey the same idea.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tempting waters" functions as a metaphorical expression, typically acting as a noun phrase within a sentence. It serves to describe situations or opportunities that appear attractive but may contain hidden risks or unforeseen challenges. Although Ludwig AI doesn't provide explicit examples for the exact phrase, its components appear across a wide variety of sources.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "tempting waters" is a metaphorical expression used to describe situations that appear attractive but may harbor hidden dangers or uncertainties. Ludwig AI analysis confirms the grammatical correctness of the phrase. While no direct examples are present in Ludwig, the individual components of the phrase are common across diverse sources. This phrase serves to caution or highlight potential negative consequences associated with seemingly appealing prospects. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for various contexts. When using "tempting waters", be mindful of overuse and consider more specific imagery to enrich your writing and to spice up your content with similar and interesting substitutes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alluring depths

Focuses more on the captivating and mysterious nature of the situation, emphasizing the unknown challenges that lie beneath the surface.

enticing prospects

Shifts the focus to the attractive possibilities that something offers, highlighting the positive reasons for considering it, while still hinting at potential risks.

tempting proposition

Focuses on the attractive and appealing nature of an offer or suggestion, while still hinting at potential drawbacks or risks.

inviting uncertainty

Highlights the paradoxical nature of something that is both appealing and unpredictable, emphasizing the exciting yet unsettling feeling it evokes.

seductive risks

Emphasizes the compelling and almost irresistible nature of a dangerous situation, suggesting that the allure is strong enough to make one overlook the potential consequences.

enticing opportunity

This phrase directly emphasizes the positive aspects of the situation while implying there may be hidden risks, similar to "tempting waters".

uncharted territory

Highlights the unknown and unexplored nature of a situation, implying that venturing into it involves both excitement and potential dangers.

treacherous allure

Focuses on the deceptive nature of something that appears attractive but is actually dangerous, emphasizing the hidden perils that lie beneath the surface.

risky venture

Highlights the element of danger and uncertainty involved in undertaking something, emphasizing the potential for both success and failure.

dangerous game

Emphasizes the element of risk and potential harm involved in a situation, suggesting that it should be approached with caution and awareness.

FAQs

How can I use "tempting waters" in a sentence?

You can use "tempting waters" to describe a situation that seems appealing but may have hidden dangers or risks. For example: "She knew accepting the promotion meant stepping into "tempting waters", but the potential rewards were too great to ignore."

What does "tempting waters" metaphorically represent?

Metaphorically, "tempting waters" often represent opportunities or situations that are alluring on the surface but could lead to unforeseen challenges, difficulties, or even danger. It suggests a cautious approach is warranted.

What are some alternatives to "tempting waters"?

Some alternatives to "tempting waters" include "alluring depths", "enticing prospects", or "uncharted territory", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "tempting waters" a cliché?

While "tempting waters" is a recognizable phrase, it hasn't quite reached the level of overused cliché. However, it's important to use it judiciously and consider whether more specific imagery might be more effective in your writing.